Crossing language and cultural barriers can be challenging when you are looking for work.
Meet Keisha, Alicia, Cynthia, Anne-Marie, Delicia and Shalaylee . They are our latest recruits to the NPYWC Iwara Program. Iwara is the Pitjantjatjara word describing pathway, and in this context a pathway to employment. From Kaltukatjara (Docker River) and Imanpa, the girls all went through a formal application process to join the program. This made sure everyone was dedicated, showed initiative and had a heap of determination.
Iwara is an 8 week intensive program based both in Alice Springs and out bush that helps young school leavers from the remote NPY lands get ready for real work in their communities and beyond. The program looks at:Employers expectations
- Administration skills
- Confidence and communication
- Experience in the workplace
- Experience running activities
Its challenging & pushes you out of your comfort zone… Iwara aims to help young people get confident and build skills for jobs that may exist in their home communities.
Iwara is in its second year after a really successful debut seeing all graduates of the program begin work their own communities.
Iwara has a strong sport and recreation focus with young participants running sports activities with young people.
An Iwara guys group will be starting soon!